§ 11. Mr. Geraint HowellsTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales if he has any plans to visit Aberporth, Cardiganshire during the next few months to discuss employment; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Nicholas BennettMy right hon. Friend currently has no plans to do so.
§ Mr. HowellsThe Minister will be well aware that west Wales will have an unemployment black spot in the next four to five years due to the possible closure of Brawdy in his constituency and Trecwn in mine and the problems facing Aberporth. Does he have a glimmer of hope for people who are worried about their jobs?
§ Mr. BennettThe hon. Gentleman is right. As a Minister and as a Member of Parliament for west Wales, I am concerned about the future of defence-related industries. I can give the hon. Gentleman a glimmer of hope about the defence research agency at Aberporth. I understand from the Ministry of Defence that there is no intention to close it and my right hon. Friend and I shall continue to make every representation that we can to enourage others to move into west Wales and create more opportunities for employment.